I bought a case of this en primuer a couple of years ago and have recently tried two bottles. The first was underwhelming and it's depressing to report that the second has confirmed this to be the case. From the WS's notes below it suggests it may still be slightly young but I'm not at all sure its problem is youth: the fruit was thin and tannins were not overly aggressive (i.e. would/should soften with age). It had no real claret like charm (e.g. no cedar, leather, cigar box nose), not unpleasant in any way but utterly forgettable.
I paid £99 up front which I think rose to £146 once VAT and duty were applied so we have to judge this against £12.17 level bottles and it really does come up short. For example, for another £2.70 I could have a Raats Cabernet Franc (Stellenbosch). In fact, if I think of what £12.17 would get me in Beaujolais (close to Chateau Thivin territory) I would argue that this is a poor show. The strategy here was to avoid the better known sub regions of Bordeaux and to try and get some value in a relatively neglected are like cotes de Francs. Hopefully I'll be returning with happier news in a couple if years but I feel that's unlikely.
I read recently (http://worldofbooze.wordpress.com/2014/02/18/bordeaux-dad-wine/) that there is still great value Bordeaux out there and maybe I need to follow recommendations more. I'm not ready to give up yet but my patience is certainly running out. This is a regrettable state of affairs considering that, like writer of the 'World of Booze' post, Bordeaux was the region that got me into wine in the first place and is so tied up with memories of drinking with my Dad.
Wine Society's tasting notes: 'The lead estate of its district on the high point of the commune bought in 1946 by Georges Thienpont, whose family also owns Vieux Certan The vineyard was replanted in the 70s 55% merlot 25% cab franc 19% cab sauv and 5% malbec. One of his sons Nicolas, makes the wine. and Georges wife still lives in the property.
It is wine like this with real depth of flavour and character but from less-known regions that represent the best value in Bordeaux. The family property of Nicolas Thienpont who makes top St Emilions like Larcis Ducasse does especially well in dry years. The 2003 was exceptional but this is finer with wonderful fruit freshness and complexity. 2015 to 2021'
